A Legacy of Convertibles and Coupés that Defined the Joy of Driving
Patxi Fernández
Viernes, 1 de agosto 2025, 10:10
From the iconic Aurelia B24 "Spider America" to the powerful Flaminia Convertible and the sporty Fulvia Coupé, Lancia has crafted a history of timeless models designed for maximum enjoyment on coastal and mountain roads, a philosophy that remains present in the current Ypsilon.
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The history of the Italian brand is filled with convertibles and coupés that embody the essence of enjoying driving under the sun. For decades, Lancia has been synonymous with summer in the automotive world, creating models that combine elegance, power, and an adventurous spirit.
Founded in Turin by Vincenzo Lancia in 1906, the brand quickly emerged as a synonym for technical innovation and sophisticated design in the automotive industry. From its early models, like the revolutionary 1922 Lambda with its monocoque body and independent front suspension, the brand distinguished itself with pioneering engineering solutions that often were ahead of their time. This focus on technical excellence, combined with refined aesthetics, earned Lancia a reputation as a manufacturer for discerning drivers.
Throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, Lancia forged an indelible sporting legacy, especially in the world of rallying. Models like the Flavia, the Fulvia Coupé (which gave rise to the legendary HF line), and the Stratos became icons of competition, amassing victories and championships that cemented their legendary status. The brand demonstrated a rare ability to transfer track innovations to its production vehicles, offering unmatched dynamism and driving experience in its street coupés and saloons, such as the celebrated Aurelia and Flaminia.
After years of splendour, Lancia faced economic challenges and ownership changes that affected its direction. Although its range was reduced and its focus diluted, the brand retains a deep-rooted prestige and a loyal fan base.
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Currently, Lancia is undergoing a relaunch process, seeking to revitalise its heritage of Italian style and elegance with new models, such as the Ypsilon, and an ambitious plan that aims to restore its former glory in the modern automotive landscape. But this time, we will remember three classic models that could perfectly fit for a summer excursion.
Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider: The "Spider America" that Captivated Hollywood
Launched in 1954, the Lancia Aurelia B24 Spider, with a masterful design by Pininfarina, was specifically conceived for the demanding American market. Driven by Max Hoffman, the legendary luxury car importer, this convertible sought to conquer the Californian fortunes eager for high-performance vehicles for their winding coastal roads. The "Spider America" offered a unique combination of driving fun, unmistakable elegance, and a top speed of 185 km/h. Its success was resounding, becoming the favourite of Hollywood stars and social figures. A true icon of the 1950s, its first generation even sacrificed door handles and side windows for pure aerodynamics, and it starred in film classics like "The Easy Life" (1962).
Lancia Flaminia Coupé and Convertible: Power and Versatility with Touring's Seal
In 1960, Lancia introduced the Flaminia Convertible, designed by the prestigious Carrozzeria Touring. This model, heir to the Aurelia and successor in Lancia's luxury universe, was based on the elegant GT Coupé and featured the latest version of the Flaminia engine with 2,755 cc and 150 hp, offering a refined and powerful driving experience. Alongside it, the Lancia Flaminia GTL 2+2, also a work of Touring, offered an additional 80 mm of wheelbase, allowing for four seats and gaining versatility without compromising performance. Both models incorporated Touring's classic Superleggera structure, with a steel tube chassis and aluminium body.
Lancia Fulvia Coupé: The Birth of the HF Sports Line
Synonymous with sportiness, the Lancia Fulvia Coupé made its debut at the 1965 Geneva Motor Show. This powerful car, with a 1.2-litre V4 engine and equipped with four disc brakes, stood out for its sporty lines and compact, balanced design. Developed with front-wheel drive, the Fulvia Coupé excelled in its exemplary behaviour, cornering stability, and excellent performance on mountain roads. These qualities earned it a broad sporting record, including an iconic victory at the 1972 Monte Carlo Rally with Sandro Munari. It was precisely with this model that the prestigious HF sports line of Lancia was born, a name that today resonates strongly both in the Ypsilon range and in the anticipated return of the Italian brand to rallies, symbolising excellence in competition and motorsport.
Lancia's heritage not only resides in its technical innovations but in its ability to create vehicles that have defined the joy of driving in summer, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
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The brand has begun its resurrection process with the launch of the Ypsilon. This model is key in Lancia's 10-year strategic plan and marks its return to European markets, including Spain.
The new Ypsilon is offered in hybrid and electric versions and is Lancia's first new car in 13 years, with a strong emphasis on iconic design and technology.
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